LEAD POISONING Simplified Method for Mass Screening for Lead Poisoning Based on δ-Aminolevulinic Acid in Urine

This new dipstick test offers a practical way to screen children repeatedly for possible lead ingestion. Children with positive results by this screening method may be followed up with more specific diagnostic and laboratory approaches. LEAD poisoning in children is a major public health problem in large cities. Mean-tal retardation and even death can be the ultimate outcome if large amounts are in-gested. Hence, lead ingestion must be detected as early as possible so that both preventive and remedial action may be taken. Current Laboratory Tests Generally, two laboratory approaches to test-ing are employed: lead level in blood,l and 8-aminolevuliriic acid (ALA) excretion in urine.2 Each test has its relative merits an